On the storms come harder and the heat comes earlier, it does not matter who you voted for. You still have to rebuild your home. You still have to find a way to breathe clean air. You still have to keep your family safe.
That is why what the Trump administration is doing right now to the National Climate Assessment should make every American furious.
This week, Trump dismissed the scientists writing the next National Climate Assessment and announced they will be "reevaluating" its scope. That is political talk for rewriting the truth.
The National Climate Assessment is supposed to be our country’s report card, providing an “up-to-date and comprehensive assessment of climate change in the United States.” It is supposed to detail how Americans, in every part of the country, are being impacted by climate change in their communities and everyday lives, and how we can prepare and be ready for what’s to come – for our health, for our financial wellbeing, and more.
But the Trump administration wants to twist it. It was reported last month the administration might try to turn everything we know about climate science on its head and falsely spin the climate crisis into a good thing for humanity. That would be propaganda – not science.
As deadly heat, floods, fires, and storms come faster and harder every year, this could not be happening at a worse time.
Last year was the hottest year ever recorded. Not just here, but across the globe. And this year, western American cities like Phoenix and Palm Springs shattered their early spring heat records. The oceans are warming at an unprecedented and alarming rate; the Great Lakes are warming even faster. And from California to New Jersey, wildfires rage.
STORMS COME,
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
When it gets hotter, the air gets dirtier. Hospitals see more cases of asthma, heart problems, and heat stroke. Families see higher health care bills. Workers – especially those in construction, farming, and delivery jobs – face real danger just doing their jobs.
Meanwhile, the cost of living keeps rising. By pushing dirty fuels and trying to stop the shift to clean energy, the Trump administration is setting families up for higher electricity bills too. Solar and wind are already cheaper than coal and gas in most places. But without honest climate science guiding policy, big utilities and fossil fuel companies will keep squeezing working people while raking in profits.
None of this is an accident. It is
part of a pattern.
Back in January, many of us warned that Donald Trump’s inner circle had a plan to gut climate science across the government. To replace facts with polluters’ wishful thinking. To erase the hard truths we must face together.
Now we are seeing it play out. And the cost will be measured in real lives, real homes, and real threats to our future. Higher temperatures strain power grids, buckle roads, and endanger seniors who cannot afford air conditioning.
Donald Trump's team can spin fairy tales all they want. But you cannot lie your way out of a flood. You cannot spin your way out of a superstorm. You cannot wish away the next record-breaking heat wave.
As a country, we must meet hard truths with hard work. But that starts with honesty. It starts with a commitment to science over spin. It starts with loving our children and grandchildren enough to fight for the future they deserve.
Because the truth is simple: Climate change is hurting us now. And if we let propaganda replace science, it will only get worse. There is too much at stake to let that happen.
You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com
In a powerful show of leadership and resistance, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and County Attorney Christian D. Menefee announced a major legal action this morning against the Trump administration's sweeping and controversial federal workforce cuts. Standing before a crowd of press and community advocates at 1001 Preston Street, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Harris County residents from the dangerous ripple effects of what they’ve labeled an “unlawful reorganization” of the federal government. The lawsuit, filed in partnership with several national labor unions and local governments, challenges the legality of the Trump administration’s abrupt restructuring plan that has already triggered massive layoffs and could potentially shutter Social Security field offices across the country — including in Harris County.
“This isn’t just a legal fight,” said Menefee. “It’s a fight for the seniors who depend on Social Security, the families who rely on federal disaster response, and the public servants who’ve dedicated their careers to keeping our communities safe and supported.”
According to official figures cited by county officials, over 120,000 federal workers have already been fired or laid off in just the first three months of Trump’s
LOCAL: HARRIS COUNTY STRIKES
BACK: HIDALGO AND MENEFEE FILE
LAWSUIT TO DEFEND LOCAL JOBS, PUBLIC SAFETY, AND DEMOCRACY
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
current term — a number that eclipses job losses in any other sector and raises alarms as hurricane season nears. The layoffs are not only dismantling critical public services, but they’re also destabilizing emergency management operations and threatening public health initiatives.
Judge Lina Hidalgo emphasized the local implications:
“We cannot afford to lose boots on the ground — not when our region is vulnerable to storms, not when our seniors need access to Social Security, and not when our children need public health protections. This is about putting people over politics.”
The lawsuit is just the latest in a growing wave of legal actions taken by
Harris County to challenge Trump-era policies that many local leaders believe are designed to erode public trust, cripple local services, and disproportionately harm diverse communities like Houston.
Both Hidalgo and Menefee have become widely recognized for standing at the legal and moral frontlines of local governance, defending everything from voting rights to pandemic response to funding for underserved communities. Menefee, the youngest and first African American elected Harris County Attorney, has repeatedly warned about the long-term damage of undermining civil service institutions.
“This isn’t about partisan politics,” Menefee added. “It’s about protecting democracy at the local level. When the federal government stops doing its job, Harris County steps up.”
The press conference also highlighted recent county lawsuits aimed at preserving critical public health funding and opposing harmful federal rollbacks that jeopardize environmental safeguards and educational equity.
As Harris County positions itself as a national leader in defending communities from federal overreach, one message rang loud and clear at Tuesday’s press event: Houston will not back down.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo & Attorney Christian Menefee
With the vibrant heartbeat of Harris
County’s second-largest city, a new generation of leadership is not only rising—it’s already reshaping Pasadena’s future. At just 28 years old, Emmanuel Guerrero, the youngest Hispanic ever elected to the Pasadena City Council, is on the move—literally and figuratively. With the May 3rd General Election upon us, Guerrero is fueling early voting numbers with the same tireless energy he brings to city hall, the business world, and his own community.
"I’m honored to serve and contribute to the city where I was born," Guerrero said, pausing under the piercing sun between conversations with voters in a buzzing early vote parking lot. “Leadership isn’t about waiting for change. It’s about making it happen—especially for the neighborhoods you call home.”
And make it happen, he has.
District C’s Renaissance: Healthcare and Hope
In recent weeks alone, Guerrero celebrated two major milestones for District C: the grand opening of the Houston Methodist Southmore Clinic, delivering cutting-edge healthcare access, and the reconstruction of the Pasadena Athletics/ PAL Gym, a longtime community hub for
EMMANUEL GUERRERO: PASADENA’S YOUNGEST COUNCILMAN BLAZES A TRAIL OF PROGRESS AND PURPOSE
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
youth development. These accomplishments reflect Guerrero’s deep-rooted belief that Pasadena’s children are the fastest-growing face of its future.
It’s a vision that stems from lived experience.
Born to a young single mother and raised in Pasadena’s public schools as the eldest of five siblings, Guerrero knew early on that ambition would be his north star. He made history not once but twice—first as Pasadena’s youngest Homeowners Association President, and then again in 2023, when he defeated an incumbent City Council
member with a commanding 56.2% of the vote—an electoral upset virtually unheard of in local politics.
From Adversity to Advocacy
Guerrero’s path to public service wasn’t without obstacles. At just 24, he survived being struck by a drunk driver three minutes from his home—an accident that nearly ended his ability to walk.
“Doctors told me I might never walk again. Today, I run—and I’m running for re-election,” he shared, resolute.
During his recovery, Guerrero didn’t just sit idle. He served on the Harris County Appraisal Review Board and built a business career while simultaneously earning dual degrees in finance and marketing from the University of Houston’s Bauer School—all in three years and all while working full time.
An Emerging Latino Leader with Statewide Momentum
His efforts have not gone unnoticed. Guerrero has been honored by a trio of influential institutions:
• Emerging Latino Leader by the American Jewish Committee
• 40 Under 40 Honoree by the Houston Business Journal
• Emerging Leader by the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
• He’s part of a generation that’s not just hungry for change—it’s creating it.
Eye on the Prize: Re-election and Representation
This year, Guerrero faces three challengers, but he’s not resting on his laurels. With a laser focus on voter outreach, youth engagement, and empowering underserved communities, he’s determined to keep the momentum alive. His message is simple and powerful: representation matters, especially in a city still grappling with historic divides between its majority-minority districts and its older populations.
“I want to represent all of Pasadena—not just District C,” Guerrero emphasized. “It’s about showing up, listening, and proving that the next generation of leadership is already here.”
Get Out and Vote
Election Day is Saturday, May 3. Polls in Pasadena and across Texas will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Pasedena Councilman Emmanuel Guerrero with Burt Levine
In a moving display of unity, remembrance, and hope, Texas Southern University (TSU) and the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston came together on Wednesday evening, April 23, 2025, to host an unforgettable Zikaron BaSalon — a Hebrew phrase meaning "Memories in the Living Room." Designed as an intimate and personal approach to Holocaust remembrance, the evening created sacred space for survivors to share their stories in a powerful and heartfelt setting.
The gathering unfolded within the historic walls of The Art Gallery in Houston’s legendary Third Ward, where TSU leadership, Jewish faith leaders, and community members converged for an evening that intertwined storytelling, dialogue, and a shared commitment to preserve memory while forging pathways toward a brighter, united future.
A Survivor’s Testament to Enduring Hope
At the heart of the evening was the courageous and deeply personal story of Bill Orlin, a spirited 93-year-old Holocaust survivor. At only seven years old when Nazi forces invaded his hometown of Brok, Poland, Bill endured unimaginable suffering — forced marches at gunpoint, the relentless pangs of hunger, and the constant threat of death. Yet, when asked how he survived those harrowing years, Bill’s answer resonated with simple, profound wisdom:
Building Bridges of Remembrance and Hope: Texas Southern University and The
Jewish Federation of Greater Houston Host Zikaron BaSalon
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
“I listened to my mother. She told me, ‘No matter what happens, stay positive.’”
Despite the unimaginable adversity, Bill’s journey led him to American shores where he became a U.S. citizen, a proud veteran, and a successful entrepreneur. Standing before the crowd, Bill offered a choice that rings true across generations:
"In life, you can choose to focus on hate—or you can choose to focus on hope. I choose hope."
Honoring Shared Legacies, Building a Future Together
Texas Southern University President James W. Crawford III reflected on the deep,
historical ties between the Black and Jewish communities — bonds born from shared struggles and a common commitment to justice.
"Texas Southern University is honored to stand alongside our partners at the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston in remembrance and unity," said President Crawford. "It is our responsibility to build upon the legacy of solidarity between our communities for generations to come."
TSU Board Chairman Brandon L. Simmons echoed this sentiment, invoking the memories of transformative leaders like Reverend Bill Lawson and Rabbi Roy Walter, whose life’s work laid the foundation for cross-cultural alliances:
"Their legacies remind us that alli-
ances built on respect and shared humanity can endure and empower future generations."
A Night of Reflection and Action Leaders on both sides emphasized that remembrance must also fuel action.
Erica Winsor, Public Affairs Officer at the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, expressed gratitude for the partnership with TSU, noting:
"Tonight marks one of three successful events we’ve shared with Texas Southern University. Each one has been profoundly moving. Zikaron BaSalon reminds us that memory is not passive—it is a call to action."
Winsor underscored the importance of expanding these collaborations beyond Holocaust remembrance, bridging moments of African American history, such as Juneteenth, and beyond. As the evening concluded, participants reaffirmed their commitment — not just to honor history, but to actively strengthen bonds across Houston’s vibrant and diverse communities. Together, they pledged to continue educating, remembering, and building a future rooted in mutual respect, resilience, and hope.
Houston Style Magazine celebrates and applauds the leaders, survivors, and community members who continue to show the world the profound power of unity, memory, and forward momentum.
No it’s not a prank. AARP Texas wants your paper—and they’re serious about it.
This spring, AARP Texas is flipping the script on fraud by launching its beloved Shred 'Em Day events across the Lone Star State. From Houston to El Paso, seniors and savvy citizens alike are invited to bring old tax returns, outdated financial statements, and anything with sensitive personal data to be safely shredded on-site—for free.
�� Mark your calendar:
Shred 'Em kicks off this May!
�� Find a local event and register now
�� Why It Matters: The High Stakes of Identity Theft
According to the Federal Trade Commission, identity theft cases surged in 2024— and older adults were frequent targets. AARP Texas isn’t waiting for scammers to knock. Instead, they’re showing up in communities statewide with an empowering message: You can fight fraud, one shred at a time.
“This is about giving Texans the tools to protect themselves,” says an AARP Texas representative. “We’re not just shredding documents; we’re shredding opportunities for scammers.”
�� Where to Shred 'Em in Texas: May 2025 Line-Up
SHRED 'EM LIKE A PRO: AARP TEXAS TAKES ON IDENTITY THIEVES, ONE DOCUMENT AT A TIME
By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com
��May 3 Shred Events:
Austin – Register here
Dallas – Register here
Houston – Register here
Brownsville – Register here
El Paso – Register here
�� May 17 Shred Events:
Fort Worth – Register here
San Antonio – Register here
�� Do the AARP Shred 'Em Two-Step (No Cowboy Boots Required
Gather your outdated personal and financial documents.
Bring them to a Shred 'Em Day event near you.
It’s easier than the Texas Two-Step— and you don’t need rhythm, just resolve.
��Pro Tips from AARP Texas to Outsmart Scammers
�� Shred Everything: If it has your name, SSN, or financial info—shred it.
�� Skip Unfamiliar Calls: Scammers often
disguise as relatives, charities, or banks.
�� Unique Passwords: Use a password manager to keep each login distinct.
�� Social Media Savvy: Avoid quizzes and personality tests—they’re data traps.
�� Install Protective Software: Use antivirus, antispyware, firewalls, and pop-up blockers.
�� VPN on Public Wi-Fi: Never enter sensitive info on open networks.
��Report Suspicious Activity:
�� AARP Fraud Watch Network
Helpline: 877-908-3360
�� FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
�� Houston Style Magazine’s Final Take
Let’s keep it real – fraudsters don’t wait. But with AARP Texas stepping up with shred trucks, safety tips, and free resources, you don’t have to wait either.
So, Houston Style Magazine readers don’t just declutter—defend. Make it a family outing, bring your neighbor, and shred 'em like your identity depends on it—because it does.
Visit http://spr.ly/6188F2mFI to find the nearest Shred 'Em Day and protect what matters most: your peace of mind.
There's a bold and necessary stand against the erasure of our collective heritage, America’s leading civil rights organizations have launched an urgent nationwide affirmation: Black history is American history — and its protection is inseparable from the defense of democracy itself.
As political forces attempt to dismantle the critical civic institutions that honor Black legacy — from the National Museum of African American History and Culture to diversity initiatives across government agencies — a coalition of powerhouses including the African American Policy Forum, National Urban League, National Council of Negro Women, National Action Network, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, Legal Defense Fund (LDF), and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights are rallying to safeguard the truth of America's story.
This monumental show of unity coincides with the launch of the #HandsOffOurHistory and Freedom To Learn National Week of Action, culminating in a major demonstration in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, May 3. Supporters nationwide are invited to participate locally by visiting museums, libraries, and exhibitions that uplift Black achievements — sharing their
Hands Off Our History: Leading Civil Rights Groups Unite to Protect Black History, Culture, and Democracy
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
solidarity online with the hashtag #HandsOffOurHistory.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
In the face of sweeping executive
orders and mounting censorship efforts, this coalition's message is clear: without Black history, America loses its soul — and its democracy.
"Black history is American history, and the Legal Defense Fund (LDF) is proud to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ensuring our past is neither forgotten nor erased," declared Janai Nelson, LDF’s President and Director-Counsel.
"We cannot acknowledge America's greatness without recognizing the accomplishments that were made possible by the civil rights movement and subsequent efforts to ensure equal access to opportunity for all. We are proud to join these outstanding organizations to proclaim #HandsOffOurHistory and to protect and defend the people, institutions, books, artifacts, and resources that uphold the truth of our history."
The full affirmation, a stirring call to action, insists:
“Without Black history, we lose the important stories of resistance undertaken to defend our democracy and the tools we need to resist today.”
At its heart, this is about preserving not just historical facts, but the living spirit of freedom movements that continue to empower all marginalized communities.
Join the Movement
Wherever You Are
Even if you can't make it to Washington, D.C., your voice matters. Visit your local museum. Browse the African American collections at your library.
Attend an exhibition honoring Black lives, art, and culture.
Post your journey online using #HandsOffOurHistory and #FreedomToLearn.
More details about how you can join both virtual and in-person activations are available at: www.freedomtolearn.net.
Houston Style Magazine proudly stands with those committed to preserving the true, full story of America — a story that shines brightest when every chapter is told. #TeamStyleMag #HSM
EXAMPLE A
NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN AIR PERMIT (NORI) RENEWAL
PERMIT NUMBER 71793
APPLICATION. Elby’s Future, LLC, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 71793, which would authorize continued operation of a Pet Crematory located at 7012 Belgold Street, Suite C, Houston, Harris County, Texas 77066. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/newsourcereview/airpermitspendingpermit-apps. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.53,29.962222&level=13. The existing facility is authorized to emit the following air contaminants: carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, organic compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less and sulfur dioxide.
This application was submitted to the TCEQ on December 14, 2024. The application will be available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, TCEQ Houston regional office, and the Barbara Bush Branch Library, 6817 Cypresswood Drive, Spring, Harris County, Texas beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public review in the Houston regional office of the TCEQ. The application, including any updates, is available electronically at the following webpage: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/airpermit-applications-notices
The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical review of the application. Information in the application indicates that this permit renewal would not result in an increase in allowable emissions and would not result in the emission of an air contaminant not previously emitted. The TCEQ may act on this application without seeking further public comment or providing an opportunity for a contested case hearing if certain criteria are met.
PUBLIC COMMENT. You may submit public comments to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing a final decision on the application and the executive director will prepare a response to those comments. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the TCEQ’s jurisdiction to address in the permit process.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. You may request a contested case hearing if you are a person who may be affected by emissions of air contaminants from the facility. If requesting a contested case hearing, you must submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing;” (4) a specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request is made by a group or association, one or more members who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns.
The deadline to submit a request for a contested case hearing is 15 days after newspaper notice is published. If a request is timely filed, the deadline for requesting a contested case hearing will be extended to 30 days after mailing of the response to comments.
If any requests for a contested case hearing are timely filed, the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests for a contested case hearing to the Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. Unless the application is directly referred to a contested case hearing, the executive director will mail the response to comments along with notification of Commission meeting to everyone who submitted comments or is on the mailing list for this application. The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and law relating to relevant and material air quality concerns submitted during the comment period. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address in this proceeding.
MAILING LIST. In addition to submitting public comments, you may ask to be placed on a mailing list for this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below. Those on the mailing list will receive copies of future public notices (if any) mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk for this application.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at 1-800-687-4040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from Elby’s Future, LLC, P.O. Box 37131, Houston, Texas77237-7131 or by calling Ms. Britt Schroeter, President at (281) 370-7008.
Notice Issuance Date: December 20, 2024.
Despite early success in her academic journey, Maia Kemp felt something was missing in her life.
As a homeschool student she took classes through Houston Community College’s dual credit program and following graduation, she attended University of New Orleans where she maintained a 4.0 grade point average. Yet, still, something was missing, and she dropped out of college.
“I took time off because I was dealing with a lack of motivation,” Kemp said. "I needed guidance and direction.” She mentioned she was sinking deeper into student loan debt, which demotivated her to complete college.
After her break from school, she returned to HCC to seek a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) certification with the hope of pursuing an engineering degree. Kemp discovered an internship opportunity with HCC’s industry partner WSB and applied for and was selected to the program.
Based out of Minneapolis, Minn., WSB is a design and consulting firm specializing in engineering, community planning, environmental, and construction services, offering services in more than 50 complementary areas across the nation.
HCC and WSB signed a memorandum of understanding in 2024 to train and support apprentices to earn their Associate
LOCAL: HCC CENTRAL STUDENT EARNS APPRENTICESHIP AT WSB, MOTIVATED TO BECOME ENGINEER
By Donald Sparks, HCC Central Communications Director
of Science degree in Drafting/Design.
“We strive to balance what contributions an apprentice can make to WSB and our clients along with what we can do to develop them through exposure and training on multiple parts of our services and solutions,” said Waymon Votaw, vice president, Energy Utilities Operations.
“I am so grateful that the apprenticeship program accepted me,” Kemp said. “I now feel as though I know my purpose and know how to move forward in my academic and professional careers.”
The experience in the apprenticeship has changed her perspective about the engineering industry. To her surprise, she was not placed in a solitary environment where she would only engage managers at their expense. She admitted her WSB coworkers and leadership actively include her on projects and takes time to provide mentorship.
“I never feel as if I am just an apprentice,” Kemp said. “I always feel like a valued contributor on a team doing important work for public safety.”
The apprenticeship did not come without any challenges. She had to learn new systems and applications and CAD principles and tasks. To overcome those challenges, Kemp relied on her supervisors and colleagues to provide her with advice.
Votaw praised Kemp as a valued member of his team.
“Maia fits this model well because of her intelligence and rapid absorption of new information, and through a willingness to raise her hand and work to solve new and challenging problems,” he said.
Serving as an apprenticeship ambassador, Tammy Nobles expressed the importance of connecting students like Kemp to companies seeking new workers or willing to train them.
“We are thrilled about our grow-
ing partnership with WSB and the incredible opportunities it brings to our students,” said Nobles, business and community outreach coordinator, HCC Work-Based Learning Department. “Programs like the CAD Tech Apprenticeship not only equip students with valuable, hands-on experience, but also allow them to earn while they learn. It’s partnerships like this that truly help bridge the gap between education and career success.”
Overall, the apprenticeship has exposed Kemp to learning CAD, data analysis, systems application training, engineering project management, and business experience.
“I believe that apprenticeships are valuable, because they give you real world experience and exposure to a field of interest at a time when you are looking for your path,” Kemp said. “It is like a sample of the career you could have and what it will really be like. You can ask specific questions to the people around you, and you can apply what you learn into everyday scenarios to better understand it.”
Maia Kemp
There's a unique cadence to how Devin Gardner speaks about football. It’s not just the game that energizes him—it’s the people, the moments, and the narratives unfolding between the lines. Once hailed as a dual-threat phenom at the University of Michigan, Gardner has since redefined his presence in the sport—not with pads, but with poise and a microphone, now delivering expert analysis on FOX Sports’ coverage of the United Football League (UFL).
In an exclusive conversation with Houston Style Magazine, Gardner shares his transition to sideline reporting, his heart for mentoring Detroit youth, and the mission behind his Emmy-winning storytelling.
From Broadcast Booth to Sideline Stories
Gardner’s recent expansion into UFL coverage marks a dynamic shift from the college football booth. As he explains, the sideline isn’t just closer to the field—it’s closer to the heart of the game.
“The biggest difference is the access to what players are thinking in real time,” Gardner said. “In college, you’re calling games based on prep and gut instinct. With the UFL, I can actually ask players in the moment and let them tell their own story.”
Devin Gardner’s Next Play: From Michigan Legend to UFL Sideline Star
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
That authenticity comes with responsibility. As Gardner points out, timing is everything. “These players are laser-focused on reaching the NFL. My job is to know when it’s a good time to step in—and when it’s not.”
Balancing Two Football Worlds
Covering both college football and the UFL could overwhelm the average analyst. But for Gardner, it’s a labor of love.
“People call it work—I call it Tuesday,” he laughed. “Whether it’s six-year-old tackle football or the NFL, I’m all in. I’ve always been a bit of a football geek.”
It’s this genuine passion that keeps his analysis sharp and his storytelling fresh, no matter the league or the level.
The Heart Behind the Highlights: Young Go Getters
Away from the field, Gardner’s most impactful work may be unfolding in Detroit. Through his youth mentorship program, Young Go Getters, he’s helping to mold future leaders—not just athletes.
“I didn’t have my father growing up, but I had a community,” Gardner said. “My older brother David, little league coaches, teachers—they all played a part in who I am. Young Go Getters is my way of paying that forward.”
The program has drawn praise from parents and community leaders alike, with many crediting it for improving their children’s chances at long-term success.
Broadcasting with Intention
Gardner’s work in sports media has already earned him multiple Michigan Sports Emmy Awards. But what sets him apart is his intuitive understanding of who’s watching.
“There’s always someone tuning in who’s brand new to the game, and someone who’s been watching for 50 years,” he said. “I want both to walk away smarter and feeling like they had fun—even if their team didn’t win.”
That balance between education and
entertainment defines Gardner’s style— and resonates deeply with fans.
A Record Holder with Perspective
Gardner still holds the University of Michigan’s single-game records for passing yards and total offense. But when evaluating today’s quarterbacks, he chooses empathy over ego.
“I give every player a blank slate. I know what it’s like to carry blame to protect teammates. Everyone deserves a chance to show who they really are.”
His analysis, much like his leadership, is rooted in grace.
In a city that stands at the intersection of culture, resilience, and healing, The Health Museum is preparing to unveil a stirring and poignant exhibition that Houston Style Magazine proudly encourages readers to experience firsthand. Launching this spring, “77 Minutes” is not just an exhibit — it is a reverent call to remember, to feel, and to heal.
Presented as part of The Health Museum’s Healing Arts Program, this photographic installation commemorates the lives lost and the families forever changed by the devastating mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. The title, “77 Minutes”, hauntingly references the amount of time it took for help to arrive on that tragic day — a number now etched in the national conscience.
Art as Advocacy, Grief as Resistance:
At the heart of the exhibit is the soul-stirring work of Cuban American artist Sarah Sudhoff, whose evocative photography has graced galleries across the country. Through floating pine-framed still-life images of children’s shoes and sheer-fabric portraits of grieving families clutching those very shoes, Sudhoff transforms un-
The Health Museum Presents “77 Minutes”: A Powerful Memorial Through Art and Healing
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
imaginable sorrow into an emotionally raw yet beautiful visual dialogue on loss and resilience.
“I chose to share space with the Uvalde families, to hold their emotions and my own,” Sudhoff explains. “These intimate photographs create a permanent record of their loss while honoring the fortitude and resilience found in each individual.”
Accompanying these visuals is the weighted workout vest of beloved Robb Elementary teacher Eva Mireles, symbolizing the daily strength she embodied and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.
Healing
Beyond the
Canvas: Events to Inspire Reflection
The exhibit goes beyond static imagery, inviting visitors into thoughtful engagement:
Artist & Psychologist Talk: On Saturday, May 10, from 2–4 p.m., Sudhoff will be joined by Dr. Cristy Gamez, a licensed psychologist, to explore the transformative potential of art in grief recovery and storytelling.
Tickets: $10 members / $25
non-members
Creative Studio Workshop: On Thursday, June 8, from 1–4 p.m., Sudhoff leads a hands-on photo transfer workshop that focuses on “Passion” as the connective tissue between advocacy and creativity.
Tickets: $35 members / $45 non-members
Healing Soundscapes: During Free Family Thursdays throughout the summer, visitors can experience 77-minute live meditative folk music sessions by Yijing Tang, creating a multisensory journey of memory and mindfulness.
Visit the Museum That’s Healing Houston One Exhibit at a Time
Located in the heart of the Houston Museum District, The Health Museum has long been a beacon for interactive science and wellness education. As a Smithsonian Affiliate and part of the Texas Medical Center, it merges credibility with accessibility.
Campus Chronicles
Aldine ISD’s Carver High School to Host Mariachi Concert & Ballet Folklórico Showcase on May 9
Aldine ISD invites families, friends, and community members to an unforgettable evening of music, dance, and cultural pride as Carver High School hosts its annual Mariachi Concert & Ballet Folklórico Showcase on Friday, May 9, 2025.
A Night of Award-Winning Performances
Headlining the evening will be Mariachi Acero, Carver High School’s celebrated ensemble, recently honored with a Distinguished Performance Award at the UIL State Mariachi Festival. The group also secured a top-15 finish in the highly competitive 6A division
This free event, which will be held in the Carver High School Auditorium at 2100 South Victory Street, Houston, TX 77088, promises a dynamic celebration of student talent. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, with donations gratefully accepted to support the arts programs.
at the Texas Association of Mariachi Educators (TAME) Contest. All eight violinists from the ensemble earned individual gold medals at UIL, further establishing Mariachi Acero as one of Texas' premier high school mariachi programs.
"The mariachi competitions are among the most challenging in Texas," said Jaime Alanis, Director of Mariachi Acero. "Advancing at this level speaks to our students’ dedication, musicianship, and teamwork. They continue to set the bar higher."
Attendees can expect a vibrant setlist featuring classics such as La feria de las flores, Árboles de la barranca, El relámpago, La charreada, Qué bonita es esta vida, and Amor eterno.
Stars from Drew Academy Also performing are students from Drew Academy’s Mariachi Program, under the leadership of Alanis. Established in 2022, the program nurtures emerging talent among 7th and 8th
Colorful Ballet Folklórico Performances
Adding to the night’s festivities, Carver High School’s Ballet Folklórico will captivate audiences with traditional dances from the Mexican states of Jalisco and Sinaloa. Directed by Veronica Flores, Spanish teacher and department head, the group has flourished since its founding in 2013, growing from three dancers to a vibrant ensemble
of 25 students across beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.
Carver’s folklórico dancers, recognized for their excellence with Superior ratings in state competitions and recipients of the Silvia Lozano Award from the Texas Association of Dance and Culture (TADC), will perform energetic pieces such as La estereofónica, Toro mambo, El son de la negra, and Las alazanas.
Rising
graders. The young musicians will perform favorites like La valentina, Árboles de la barranca, and Vals, showcasing their impressive growth and dedication to traditional mariachi music.
Asymphony of resilience, passion, and hope is about to unfold.
This May, the Texas Medical Center Orchestra (TMCO) — one of the most unique orchestras in the world — invites Houstonians to celebrate a magnificent milestone: 25 years of musical excellence!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 7:00 PM inside the dazzling Zilkha Hall at Houston's Hobby Center for the Performing Arts for TMCO’s landmark concert, “From Darkness to Light.”
�� A Night of Masterpieces The evening opens with the soaring beauty of Mendelssohn’s Concerto for Violin in E Minor, Op. 64, performed by the brilliantly gifted Mann-Wen Lo, a rising star from the University of Houston’s Moores School of Music. Known for its lyrical warmth and virtuosic passages, Mendelssohn’s concerto is a fitting tribute to TMCO’s enduring spirit.
After intermission, brace yourself for an emotional voyage through Mahler’s Symphony No. 5. From the gripping opening funeral march to the serene Adagietto — a musical love letter in strings and harp — Mahler’s masterpiece mirrors TMCO’s own journey: navigating hardships and reaching luminous triumphs. It’s a sonic testament to the human spirit's resilience and joy.
�� More Than a Concert — A Movement Founded in 2000, TMCO has
TMCO’s 25th Anniversary: "From Darkness to Light" Concert Lights Up Houston – May 10th at Hobby Center!
By Francis Page Jr. For www.StyleMagazine.com
blossomed into a beacon of artistic excellence and humanitarian outreach. An orchestra composed primarily of health care professionals, TMCO embodies the healing power of music — bridging medicine and melody to uplift communities across Houston and beyond.
This 25th anniversary concert isn’t just a performance; it's a celebration of Houston's heart. A celebration of how music can turn despair into hope, isolation into community, and darkness into light.
�� Why You Shouldn't Miss This Witness the magic of Mann-
Wen Lo’s solo debut on Houston’s grand stage.
Feel the full force of Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 — one of classical music’s most emotionally powerful works. Celebrate 25 years of TMCO’s mission to heal and inspire through music.
Support Houston’s vibrant arts and medical communities.
�� Get Your Tickets Today! Tickets are on sale now — and they are moving fast! Secure your seat for this historic evening: �� Buy Your Tickets Here
Blueprint Church
Pastors Matthew and Falyn Davis
�� Support TMCO’s Future Can't attend? You can still be part of TMCO’s journey.
Become a donor and help TMCO continue its mission of healing through music, supporting concerts, community outreach, and educational initiatives.
�� Location: Zilkha Hall, Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Houston, TX
Program: �� Mendelssohn's Concerto for Violin in E Minor, Op. 64 (featuring Mann-Wen Lo)
�� Mahler's Symphony No. 5
As TMCO boldly moves from darkness to light, Houston Style Magazine proudly salutes their extraordinary past, vibrant present, and brilliant future.
GREAT EDUCAT RS THE HEART OF LEARNING STARTS WITH
Nominate a deserving teacher, counselor, principal, early childhood learning center, school board or school district.
Created in 2002, the H‑E‑B Excellence in Education Awards was designed to honor and thank outstanding public school professionals. Through this program, H‑E‑B awards over $780,000 annually to deserving educators who go the extra mile to serve their students and communities.
To submit a nomination or application, go to HEBLovesTeachers.com
